Photography

Learn to create images that tell compelling stories, whether your dream is to be a fashion or fine art photographer or a photojournalist.

As a photography student at ARU you’ll develop skills in professional photography, multimedia, critical communication and exhibition.

Take full advantage of our specialist darkrooms, photographic studios, and digital post-production and printing suite. You can also borrow specialist camera equipment through our dedicated loan service.

You’ll be taught through individual tutorial and studio sessions, as well as in group lectures and workshops. You'll also benefit from regular career development events throughout your Photography degree.

Our BA (Hons) Photography scored 90% for Learning Resources in the National Student Survey 2023.

Our BA (Hons) Photography degree will help you prepare for work in the photographic, creative and media industries, or for self-employment as a photographer or artist.

You can choose to take up formal or informal work placements that will help you establish your own professional network, including opportunities such as working for magazines, galleries and photographers. Our campus employment bureau can also help you find photographic jobs that fit around your studies.

Around ARU you can also take advantage of many opportunities to use and promote your skills, such as working with staff and students to photograph their events.

We also hold regular career development events featuring guest speakers, such as professional photographers Tom Hunter, Jane Hilton and Tim Flach.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.